Validation of UK Protocols to Exclude Brain Blood Flow During Normothermic Regional Perfusion (NRP)

Validation of UK Protocols to Exclude Brain Blood Flow During Normothermic Regional Perfusion (NRP)

This study aims to evaluate both Abdominal Normothermic Regional Perfusion (A-NRP) and Thoracoabdominal-NRP (TA-NRP) techniques, proving that brain blood flow is not resumed during NRP. This will be assessed through the use of two modalities: CT angiogram of the brain and continuous Hb02 readings. The study group hypothesise that such assessment methods will provide evidence to indicate that brain blood flow is not present during NRP and promote trust in the use of such novel techniques in routine practice.

Inclusion Criteria:

• DCD donors in Cambridge University Hospital
• Planned A-NRP
• Consent for study has been obtained
• Those who meet the appropriate criteria for DCD donation following WOLST
• ≥ 18 years of age
• ≤ 75 years of age

Exclusion Criteria:

• DBD organ donors
• DCD organ donations outside of Cambridge University Hospital
• DCD donors without planned A-NRP
• DCD donors whose family have withheld consent for brain blood flow investigations.
• Patients who do not meet the appropriate criteria for DCD donation following WOLST
• Patients with injuries that will physically prevent use of the necessary assessment methods